1. What is the Lloyd Borrett Air Depth Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the Equivalent Air Depth (EAD) for nitrox diving, which represents the depth at which air would produce the same nitrogen partial pressure as the nitrox mix at the actual depth.

Purpose: Helps divers plan safer dives by understanding the nitrogen exposure when using enriched air nitrox.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( EAD \) — Equivalent Air Depth (meters)
• \( D \) — Actual depth (meters)
• \( Fₙ \) — Nitrogen fraction in breathing gas (0.79 for normal air)

Explanation: The formula adjusts the actual depth based on the reduced nitrogen content in nitrox compared to air.

3. Importance of EAD Calculation

Details: Understanding EAD helps divers avoid decompression sickness by properly accounting for nitrogen absorption when using gas mixes with different oxygen percentages.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the actual dive depth in meters and the nitrogen fraction of your gas mix (default 0.79 for air). The nitrogen fraction must be between 0 and 1.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is EAD important for nitrox divers?
A: EAD shows the shallower depth where air would give the same nitrogen exposure, helping plan no-decompression limits.

Q2: What's the standard nitrogen fraction for air?
A: Normal air has 79% nitrogen (0.79), while EAN32 has 68% nitrogen (0.68).

Q3: When would EAD be shallower than actual depth?
A: Whenever using nitrox (oxygen-enriched air), since it contains less nitrogen than regular air.

Q4: How does EAD affect dive planning?
A: Divers can use air dive tables at the EAD rather than actual depth for safer no-decompression limits.

Q5: Does EAD account for oxygen toxicity?
A: No, EAD only addresses nitrogen exposure. Oxygen exposure must be calculated separately.